Predicting algae blooms in time to help coast economy
A statewide research group is developing a way to forecast harmful algae blooms to help mitigate the negative economic impact that beach closures have on Oregon’s coastal communities.
Group turns trash into treasure
A group of Portland-area business strategists are encouraging companies to dump their waste on others as a way to save money.
Oregon economic indicators as of July 2010
All “latest” numbers are for July 2010 unless otherwise noted. Latest Month Previous Month Previous Year Annual Change EMPLOYMENT/BUSINESS LISTINGS Total employment State of Oregon, thousands 1,774.4 1,764.9 1,763.6 0.6% Total unemployment State of Oregon, thousands 209.4 202.6 220.8 -5.1% Unemployment rate Ore. civilian labor force, seasonally adjusted 10.6% 10.5% 11.4% -0.8 Portland/Vancouver MSA; … Read more
State We’re In: Freight transportation levels out
State tax receipts from trucking employment /busines listings fell 11.6% in 2009, but gained 4.3% year-to-date as of July.
Wind energy developer runs into a green wall
Wind energy developer Chris Crowley was the darling of the green set until he tried to put turbines near Steens Mountain.
Nonprofit battles home affordability on Coast
The Lincoln Community Land Trust is offering its first house on the Oregon Coast, a small step to combat the lack of affordable housing.
The prison price tag
The state prison agency takes nearly 10% of general fund money, adding up to a bigger share of tax collections on prisons than any other state.
BPA struggles with wind backup
When Oregon wind farms aren’t producing enough energy, they turn to Bonneville Power Administration for backup power – but they are struggling to provide enough.
Mysterious makers of cheaper wine
Four vintners make up Guild Winemakers, a group that produces affordable wine from high-quality excess fruit and finished wine.
Passive Houses gain popularity
Passive Houses that reduce energy usage by up to 90% because of airtight construction are gaining a following in Oregon.